Trail summary

7,631 Total views

3km

Length:

1.25 hrs

Duration:

Grade:

Circuit

Style:

Max elevation: Pending

Min elevation: Pending

Total Ascent: Pending

Start: 118 McCabes Rd

End: 118 McCabes Rd

Nightcap National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Doon Doon

From state capital: 795km

Latitude: -28.53850064

Longitude: 153.3016214

Quick overview: Discover the lush rainforest and eucalypt forests of the Mount Matheson loop, a 3km circuit hiking track of moderate difficulty located near Mount Nardi in Australia. This trail offers a unique walking experience through diverse landscapes, and is perfect for reasonably fit outdoor enthusiasts. Starting and ending at the Mount Nardi picnic area, this hike can be expanded with a visit to Pholis Gap or the historic Nightcap walking tracks for an overnight bush camping experience. Don't forget to bring plenty of water!

Hike Overview

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Hike overview

Experience the variety of the unique landscape along the Mount Matheson loop. On this short walking track you'll hike through the lush rainforest that encircles Mount Matheson, before reaching the dramatic cliff edges that feature eucalypt forests. It's not a long walk but some might find it challenging, so you'll need to be reasonably fit, and remember to bring plenty of water.
The walk starts and ends at Mount Nardi picnic area, a small grassy area with a couple of barbecues and a picnic table.
You may want to use this loop walk to reach the Pholis Gap or historic Nightcap walking tracks. Pholis Gap is a good option to extend the loop into a day walk, and you can take the Nightcap track if you'd like to do some overnight walking and bush camping.

Map and GPX file

Mount Matheson Loop Walk (3km)

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Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Lismore, Nimbin, Mullumbimby, Bangalow, Clunes

How to get to Nightcap National Park

On entering Nightcap National park, Mount Matheson loop is on the left-hand side of the road just before you reach Mount Nardi picnic area. Parking Parking is available at Mount Nardi carpark a short distance from the start of the track.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.

Directions on Google Maps

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About the region

Explore ancient World Heritage-listed rainforest in Nightcap National Park, near Lismore in north-eastern NSW. Ideal for a day trip or overnight adventure, you'll find great campgrounds, picnic areas, walks and stunning views.

Nightcap National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, is a dramatically beautiful park full of ancient rainforests, magical waterways and spectacular views.

The lush rainforest provides a home for the newly discovered nightcap oak as well as a number of threatened animal species, including Albert's lyrebird and Fleay's barred frog which takes shelter under leaf litter and makes an 'ok-ok-ok-ok-ok' after rain.

With easy access from Lismore and Nimbin, you can enjoy a picnic, bushwalk or overnight camping trip amid the park's escarpments, waterfalls and crystal clear creeks and enjoy incredible views of the 20 million year-old Wollumbin shield volcano.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Nightcap National Park or nearby? Try these similar graded walks.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Mount Matheson Loop Walk (3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Map and GPX file

Mount Matheson Loop Walk (3km)